Following the summer recess, Germany’s governing coalition – comprised of the Social Democratic Party (SPD) and the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) – is entering a crucial period requiring significant decision-making, according to Steffen Bilger, Parliamentary Managing Director of the CDU.
Speaking on POLITICO’s Berlin Playbook podcast, Bilger emphasized a shared understanding within all three coalition parties – acknowledging the CDU, SPD and Greens – of the importance of addressing challenges and making sound judgments. He stated that the parties are aware of their responsibility to deliver solutions.
A meeting of CDU leadership held on Monday afternoon was described by Bilger as a regularly scheduled discussion, planned weeks in advance and not a response to any crisis. He characterized it as a productive opportunity to calmly review upcoming priorities before the parliamentary session resumes.
Bilger conceded that tensions exist within the coalition, noting that while implementation of the governing agreement began swiftly, disagreements inevitably arise, particularly in areas like fiscal and social policy. However, he insisted these represent substantive differences in opinion, not a threat to the coalition’s stability.
“We are a working coalition” he affirmed, expressing the expectation of constructive governance from the SPD. He further indicated a shared recognition of the need for reforms, suggesting a foundation for continued collaboration despite differing viewpoints.